Run machine Alastair Cook batted through the whole day to put England in an ever commanding position at the end of day 2 of the second Test at Edgbaston.
Starting the day with 84 runs on the board without the loss of any wickets, the plan in the England camp would have been to bat through the day and access the situation at stumps.
This is exactly what they achieved and with a worrying ease for the Indians.
Led by Alastair Cook (182 not out) who has now batted for over 8 hours moved England to 450-3 a lead of 232 at the close of play. Captain Andrew Strauss who has been desperate for runs scored a solid 87 before being bowled by Mishra but would have been disappointed not to have got a century.
Ian Bell added a quick fire 34 before losing his off-stump to Kumar.
Kevin Pieterson (63) was trapped LBW which he did not agree with, although TV replays showed standing Umpire Steve Davis made the correct decision.
Eion Morgan batted with confidence despite being dropped twice (the second time in the final over of the day) as he ended the day on 44 not out .
A long day in the field for India was not helped by some lacklustre batting, dropped catches in the outfield and numerous over-throws. And with a batting line up which extends down to number 10, India could be facing a deficit around 400 before starting their second innings.
With a lead of 232 going into only the third day England will be hoping they can win this Test match and the series without having to bat their second innings. A pitch already showing signs of spin should allow the worlds number 1 spinner Graeme Swann to finally have an impact on a series which he has so far not been needed.
England lead by: 232
Man of the Day: Alastair Cook not out
India's Bowling Figures (Overs-Runs-Wickets)
Kumar 32 - 75 -2
Sreesanth 22-103-0
Sharma 25-112-0
Mishra 26-100-1
Raina 7-23-0
Tendulkar 1-3-0
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